VOL. 55 NO. 1 SEPTEMBER, st ANNUAL UOL CONVENTION rknuajohnson CITY, NEW YORK UOL CONVENTION A HUGE SUCCESS!

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1 155N X UKRAINIAN ORTHODOX LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Dedicated to our Church -- Devoted to its Youth VOL. 55 NO. 1 SEPTEMBER, st ANNUAL UOL CONVENTION rknuajohnson CITY, NEW YORK UOL CONVENTION A HUGE SUCCESS! The Light of Christ Illumines All July 30, August 3, 2008 The 61 st Annual Ukrainian Orthodox League Convention was truly a celebration that illumined all and was a shining example of Christian love, represented most symbolically by I UOL. UOL delegates and guests gathered at the Holiday Inn Arena in downtown Binghamton, NY to review the accomplishments of the past year and to make plans for the upcoming year. In addition to the business sessions, the UOL Convention served as a time to rekindle friendships and to make new ones. On Wednesday July 30 th, both the Senior and Junior National Executive Boards held their pre-convention meetings. Registration was opened on Wednesday and coordinated by Lisa Ferrante. Throughout the Convention the Registration room was wonderfully helpful with directions, suggestions, great conversation and always welcoming. The cultural room combined with registration allowed for individuals to see wonderful items from Ukraine and to bid on numerous silent auction items. The cultural room was chaired by Carol Petras-Wasylko. At 6:00 p.m. that evening President Oleh Bilynsky called the 61 st Annual Convention to order. The presentation of colors and National Anthem was followed by a moment of silence in honor of UOL members of Blessed Memory. Next the Junior UOL Convention body sang the Junior UOL Hymn. As a special treat this year, the Juniors and pre-teens of St. John s, Johnson City sang this little light of mine, to welcome all UOL members. His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine offered inspirational words that encouraged delegates and guests to be illumined by the Convention and serve as lights in our home parishes and the world. When sessions adjourned for the day, everyone joined the Johnson City Chapter in the hospitality room. The warmth and hospitality of the Johnson City Chapter was evident in the evening event chaired by Mark and Jen Hatala. UOL ers had the opportunity to taste a Johnson City specialty, pierogie pizza. The hospitality room was crowded with UOL members catching up with old friends. Thursday morning His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine, His Eminence Archbishop Antony and His Grace Bishop Daniel co-celebrated Divine Liturgy. The Johnson City parish choir under the direction of Melodye Onysko sang like angels. In fact, many who were in the hotel and not with the Convention were inspired by the Liturgy. The Chapel Iconostasis and altar tables were made by Phil Harendza and were absolutely beautiful. The Icons within the chapel were written through the hand of Pani Matka Natalia Zharsky. The chapel was truly inspirational. (continued on page 4) Johnson City welcomes all UOL members to the 61st Annual Convention! 62nd ANNUAL UOL CONVENTION Sts. Peter and Paul, Youngstown, OH July 22-26, 2009 We look forward to seeing you in Y-town!!

2 PAGE 2 SEPTEMBER The official publication of the Ukrainian Orthodox League of the United States of America. Circulated to all UOL Members. Non-members subscription rate $30.00 Canada $40.00 Oleh Bilynsky Taylor Gladys Natalie Bilynsky Father John Harvey UOL President Jr. UOL President UOL Bulletin Editor UOL Bulletin 703 Pine Ridge Rd 14 McKelvey Ave. 703 Pine Ridge Road Spiritual Advisor Wallingford, PA Pittsburgh, PA Wallingford, PA nsufler@aol.com Sr. Staff Writer- Elizabeth Mitchell 46 Lexington Court, Carnegie, PA UOL Bulletin - Published seven times annually - September, October, November, January/February, March, April and June. The absolute deadline for each monthly issue is the 1st of the prior month. Photos will not be returned. Note to Contributers: All articles submitted to the UOL Bulletin must be in 12 point Times New Roman (font), or typed and double spaced in 12 point type. Articles may be submitted via attachments. (Submit to: nsufler@aol.com) The editor reserves the right to condense any material submitted. Material cannot be returned. SENIOR CHAPTER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD PARMA, OHIO - CHAPTER OF THE YEAR The 2008 Senior Chapter Achievement Award was presented to the Senior Chapter of St. Vladimir, Parma, Ohio. Just a few of the chapter s many projects included: an annual Sviata Vechera, which this year served over 200 individuals, and which included delivering the traditional Christmas Eve Supper to homebound parishioners; working closely with Jr. Chapter members by going Christmas caroling and delivering Easter baskets to shut-ins in nursing homes and hospitals; preparing meals and caroling with the residents of St. Herman s Monastery and House of Hospitality; and establishing and managing a parish Emergency Fund, which allows parishioners who are struggling financially to receive a monetary loan or grant to help them get back on their feet. Chapter members also actively participated in all aspects of Church life, and served as, among other things, parish council officers, church school teachers, readers, choir members, and camp counselors. Chapter President Pani Matka Mary Anne Nakonachny wrote that our chapter has some truly phenomenal members who are devoted to their Holy Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the Ukrainian Orthodox League. There s never a time when our members are unwilling to help, be it preparing the church for Holy Days, working at long-established fundraisers or trying new ways to raise money for our church. They assist greatly with the youth in our parish, teaching Sunday School, helping the Juniors, working at Vacation Church School and at All Saints Camp. Spiritual advisor Very Rev. John Nakonachny stated that our UOL chapter is one of our parish s greatest strengths. The members are dedicated to both the UOL and our Holy Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Chapter members tend to be the leaders and are very active, reliable workers in almost every organization within our parish. They never turn down a plea for help and, invariably, are the first to volunteer for any project. They are generous with their time, energy and finances, giving freely of themselves at all times. Congratulations to the Parma Senior UOL Chapter! Sts. Peter and Paul, Youngstown, Ohio The Sts. Peter and Paul Sr. and Jr. UOL of Youngstown, OH would like to congratulate St. John the Baptist Sr. and Jr. UOL of Johnson City, NY on a most illuminating 61st UOL Convetion. Our delegates and members thoroughly enjoyed all of the exciting events and meaningful worship at the Convention. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality! We hope to extend the same warm inviting hospitality at the 62nd UOL Convention in Youngstown! Look for updates and more information in the next Bulletin! Officers elected locally to serve through 2009 are President: Walter M. Duzzny, Vice President: Howard Ulbricht, Treasurers: Krista Ulbricht and Olga Senedak, Secretary: Robin Thomas, Corresponding Secretary: Stephanie Remedio, Auditors: Kathy Starr and Yvonne Mark, Chapter Reporter: Diane Senedak. Spiritual Advisor: Fr. John Harvey. Convention Chairpersons are Kevin Thomas and Robert Mark, Convention Treasurers are Stephanie Remedio and Kathleen Duzzny. MESSAGE FROM THE SENIOR UOL PRESIDENT Oleh Bilynsky Glory to Jesus Christ! Slava Isusu Christu! I am honored and privileged to once again greet you as the re-elected president of the Ukrainian Orthodox League. This issue of the Bulletin will highlight the 61st Annual U.O.L. Convention, and as such I would like to take this opportunity to thank Pam Scannell and Alexis Oryhon, the Convention Co- Chairpersons, and all of the Senior and Junior U.O.L. Chapter members of St. John Parish in Johnson City, NY for hosting the 61st Annual U.O.L. Convention. Thanks to your hard work and efforts every single event during the Convention was a huge success and thoroughly enjoyable. Thank you Johnson City for sponsoring such a wonderful and outstanding convention. I am once again very fortunate to be blessed with a very talented and dedicated National Executive Board, who I know will make my job easier. Below you will find the commission and committee appointments, who are already diligently working hard to implement the 61st Annual U.O.L. Convention recommendations. Commissions Christian Caregiving and Missions Jared Burgan Education Eric Senedak Vocations & Clergy Support Pani Matka Linda Oryhon Ways and Means Daria Pishko Komichak Youth Oleh Bilynsky Committees ABC Books Helen Greenleaf Annual Fund Drive Alexis Oryhon Awards Martha Misko Bulletin, Tribute Fund, Membership Natalie Bilynsky Camp Delegate Eric Senedak Constitution, LSSK Daria Pishko Komichak Essay Contest, UOL Archives Shirley Skocypec Jr. U.O.L. Advisor Melanie Nakonachny Chapter Development, UOL Archives Emil Skocypec MJSF Very Rev. Myron Oryhon Public Relations Aleksandra Hucul The purpose of the National Executive Board is to assist the chapters in whatever way possible. In an effort to best serve our chapters, each chapter is assigned a National Executive Board liaison to remain in communication with you throughout the year and bring your needs to the National Executive Board. Do not hesitate to contact your chapter liaison (listed below) or myself if we can assist you in any way possible. Oleh V. Bilynsky Philadelphia, Rochester Daria Pishko Komichak Coatesville, Silver Springs, Wilmington Emil Skocypec Boston, Los Angeles, Minersville, Monessen, New Britain, Spring Valley, Woonsocket Aleksandra Hucul Carteret, Maplewood Shirley A. Skocypec Carnegie, South Bound Brook Martha Misko Allentown, Northampton Alexis Oryhon Clifton, Johnson City, Palos Park Eric Senedak Pittsburgh, Sharon, Youngstown Melanie A. Nakonachny Ambridge, Lyndora, Parma The fall meeting of both the Junior and Senior National Executive Boards will be held in Philadelphia, PA on September 27, The meeting will be preceded by Divine Liturgy, as we celebrate the Exaltation of the Cross. As always, everyone is welcome and I encourage anyone who is in the area, both Juniors and Seniors, to attend this meeting. Please be reminded that U.O.L. dues are due to financial secretary Alexis Oryhon no later than September 30 th. Now is the perfect time to kick off a membership drive and encourage not only existing members to pay their dues but also new members to consider joining this worthwhile organization. Lastly, I would like to congratulate Taylor Gladys, newly elected Junior U.O.L. National President, and all of this year s Junior National Executive Board members. They have already begun working hard to lay the groundwork for an outstanding year, and I am sure they will have a very successful and productive year. Yours in Christ, Oleh V. Bilynsky

3 PAGE 3 Young Adults Retreat to All Saints Camp for Memorial Day By Joshua Oryhon Utilizing the ideal setting of All Saints Camp, Young Adults from various corners of the diocese gathered for the annual Memorial Day Weekend Retreat. Ably masterminded by Michael and Melanie Nakonachny, this retreat provides a chance for participants to meet in a relaxed setting before embarking on yet another frenzied summer of constant activities. The on-going preparation of the new Camp Chapel was a major focus of the weekend, in addition to the spiritual and social undertakings standard at any retreat. Participants began arriving in the afternoon of Friday, May 23rd, happy to renew old acquaintances and forge new ones. After a delicious meal prepared by Cindy Haluszczak, which was a constant treat the entire weekend, the participants met for an official welcome from Michael, review of ground rules and a roundtable discussion facilitated by Larissa Tschaikowsky. Bringing diverse experiences and individual impressions to the table allowed for inspired dialogue on the topic of strengths and areas of improvement for our Ukrainian Orthodox Church. A list of both categories was fashioned for inclusion in a letter to the Hierarchs. Friday night was capped off with a movie and obligatory late-night chatter. After prayers and breakfast, Saturday mornings are typically reserved for the Camp Service Project, this year focusing on the completion of the new Chapel. Led by Hans Harasimchuk and his assistant Sarah Catanese, close on thirty hands pitched in, assembling the fiberglass domes and attaching them to their support structures or placing icons inside the Chapel building itself. Though not even fully completed, this building is already a wonderful testament to the countless volunteers devoted to this worthy undertaking, and also serves as a fitting symbol detailing the longstanding positive influence of All Saints Camp on our Church. After hours of intense labor under cloudless Western Pennsylvanian skies, spirits were still high and hunger pains acute. Very Reverend Father John Nakonachny convened the second workshop after lunch, clad in a Cleveland Indians hat and sunglasses in a good-natured attempt to fit in with the target audience, none of which were dressed in such a manner. His presentation touched on a variety of topics, including the involvement of the Young Adults in their home parishes. He urged the participants to eagerly and selflessly apply themselves in every aspect of parish life, doing so not for adulation and praise, but for the overall benefit of our churches and mother Church. After more work on the Chapel and some free time, Fr. John served Vespers as responses were joyously sung by the Young Adults. Vespers were followed by a Panakhyda for Juanita Robinson, a much-loved fixture at Camp recently fallen asleep. After a magnificent dinner prepared by His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine everyone joined in as Father Deacon Dennis Lapushansky discussed Pentecost and parallels between the Old Testament and our current Theological structures during the evening s workshop. Saturday ended with socializing and widespread game play amongst the participants. His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine and Father Deacon Dennis served the Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning, once again exquisitely sung by the experienced voices of the Young Adults. Upon the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy everyone joined in for the singing of God Bless America in honor of Memorial Day. With brunch consumed, Metropolitan Constantine gave a rousing presentation on His Grace Bishop Daniel s recent Consecration to the Episcopacy and the upcoming services celebrated during the Consecration of the new Chapel. His Beatitude reiterated his desire for the creation of a monastery on the grounds of the Camp, and the building of this Chapel serves as the impetus for this endeavor. The rest of the afternoon was devoted to even more Chapel work, final preparations for the evening s Iron Chef Cook-Off, cardiovascular pursuits and time at the pool. The Cook-Off has become a legendary fixture at the Retreat for years now, pitting brave combatants in a knock-down drag-out SEPTEMBER 2008 NEWS FROM THE JUNIOR UOL PRESIDENT Taylor Gladys Glory to Jesus Christ! This is Taylor Gladys writing, and I just wanted to let all of you know how truly grateful and honored I am to have been elected President of the Junior National Executive Board this year. The 2008 convention was one of the best yet. I would like to thank Mrs. Pam Scannell, Ms. Alexis Oryhon, and Mr. Patrick Scannell, as well as the entire parish of Johnson City for the hard work and incessant effort they put into making this convention both special and hospitable. In addition, I would like to commend Patrick Scannell for his phenomenal service to the Jr. UOL. Not only did he carry the board through this past year, but he also went the extra mile in helping me prepare myself for the coming year and offering his advice at any time. Congratulations to all of the other board members who have graduated this past year. Now, it is with great privilege that I introduce the new National Executive Board for the year: Spiritual Advisor:Rev. Fr. Anthony Perkins-St. Michael- Woonsocket, RI Senior Advisor:Melanie Nakonachny - St. Vladimir- Parma, OH President:Taylor Gladys-St. Vladimir- Pittsburgh, PA Vice President:Eric Perankovich - Sts. Peter and Paul- Youngstown, OH Recording Secretary:Elizabeth Hucul-Holy Ascension- Maplewood, NJ Corresponding Secretary:Arianna Rock-Holy Trinity- New Castle, PA Financial Secretary:Ethan Rock-Holy Trinity- New Castle, PA Treasurer:John Walewski -Sts. Peter and Paul- Carnegie, PA I have tremendous faith in my board this year. We get along with each other terrifically and I feel as though we have an extremely productive year ahead of us. The youth and energy coming from this board assures the UOL that many great things can be expected from us. At our first meeting at convention, liaison chapters and committees were assigned to each board member. Throughout the coming year, the members will assist with the following: Taylor Gladys Pysh Travel Grant Committee, Pittsburgh, PA, Phila., PA Eric Perankovich Cultural Committee/Education Committee and Raffle Tickets Committee, Youngstown, OH, Parma, OH, Palos Park, IL Elizabeth Hucul Membership/Chapter Development Committee, Southfield, MI, Maplewood, NJ, Carteret, NJ Arianna Rock Christian Caregiving and Missions Committee, Boston, MA, Allentown, PA Ethan Rock Fundraising/Great Lent Giveaway Committee, Northampton, PA, Coatesville, PA, Woonsocket, RI John Walewski Convention Yearbook Committee and Website Committee, Carnegie, PA, Johnson City, NY The first meeting of our new board will be held on September 27, 2008 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania along with the senior board. The training wheels are off and I know that the entire Jr. Board is excited to get to work. I ask that all junior chapters be mindful that roster forms, chapter dues, and membership dues should be mailed in by September 30. All of these items may be sent to Ethan Rock (Financial Secretary). All chapters should be receiving further instruction about these forms in the mail soon. Good luck and best wishes to both the junior and senior boards in the coming year. I pray that the Lord be with us as we encounter our various obstacles and that He aids us so that we may fulfill our duties and serve his Holy Orthodox Church and the league. Yours In Christ, Taylor Gladys fracas of culinary supremacy. After sampling all the entries to the point of physical pain, Mark Senedak was voted the 2008 Iron Chef Cook-Off winner for his preparation of beef spareribs. His prizes included the Official Iron Chef Cook-Off Trophy o Victory and various highquality Ronco cooking products. And as another surprise, Tanya Tschaikowsky presented everyone with Jerusalem crosses that she brought back from a recent trip to the Holy Land. In an attempt to work off some of the Iron Chef entries, the Young Adults spent the evening playing an intense series of beach volleyball contests. The team of Chris Burgan, Kira Haluszczak, Hans Harasmichuk, Mike Nakonachny, Eric Senedak and Mark Senedak edged Julian Burgan, Josh Haluszczak, Emily Kominko, Melanie Nakonachny, Josh Oryhon and Tanya Tschaikowsky in a thrilling and spirited affair. After evening prayers and even more hours of games, the extremely fatigued participants called it a weekend. (continued page 8)

4 PAGE 4 (continued from page 1) Following Diving Liturgy, all members joined for a full brunch. That afternoon the major work of the Convention sessions was completed. This included the approval of 60th Annual UOL Convention Minutes, review of the Annual Report-2008, Audit Report, and review and approval of Financial Report that also included the acceptance of a Budget. Convention Committees met to discuss important issues within our chapters and parishes as well as to make goals and objectives for the Executive Board and local chapters. Several committees were for Senior delegates including: Vocations and Clergy Support, Ways and Means, Nominating, and Resolutions. There were also several committees that were combined Junior-Senior Committees: Christian Caregiving and Missions, Youth, Membership & Chapter Development and Education. After the individual committees met and discussed appropriate topics, each submitted a report to the convention body for final ratification. Highlights of the Committee reports included discussion about membership dues and strategies to encourage membership in the UOL. The Convention body decided to make Member at Large dues $20 in an effort to encourage those individuals who are not in areas with chapters to remain informed and active in the UOL. Additionally, the Convention body discussed the importance of focusing on Vocations and Clergy Support. During Thursday sessions President Oleh Bilynsky presented His Eminence Archbishop Antony with a check for over $6,900. for St. Andrew s Society for soup kitchens in Ukraine. These funds were raised as part of the UOL s Souper Bowl Sunday fundraising project. Perhaps the greatest highlight of the Convention was the announcement of two new chapters: St. Vladimir in Pittsburgh, PA and St. Andrew in South Bound Brook, New Jersey. A presentation and update on The UOL Fund to Furnish the Chapel at All Saints Camp was presented by Mrs. Irene Carman (Watertown, NY). She reported that the committee of herself, Pani Matka Mary Anne Nakonachny (Parma, OH) and Mrs. Diane Senedak (Youngstown, OH) had raised over $160,000 for the icons and appointments for the chapel. The Convention Body decided that the additional funds left over would be used for upkeep and maintenance as well as to finish the basement of the chapel. Pre-Teen activities were coordinated by Cathy B u c h a r e w. The pre-teens greeted His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine on his birthday. They presented him with a banner and a birthday cake, as well as sang Mnohaya Lita Vladyko! It is wonderful that the UOL Convention SEPTEMBER 2008 delicious. The evening festivities included dancing and a trivia contest, and was capped off with fireworks from a local baseball game. The view from the State Office was fantastic and breathtaking. On Friday the business sessions continued with reports for each of the committees being approved. Additionally, Josh and Alexis Oryhon presented flowers to their grandmother Eugenia Arson who turned 80 on The Keynote speaker Father David Smith spoke on the theme of the Convention, the Light of Christ Illumines all. has frequently coincided with Vladyko s birthday and we have had the honor to sing Mnohaya Lita to him! We wish His Beatitude many many more Conventions and Birthdays for us to celebrate as a family. Thursday evening was a Southern Tier celebration. Convention delegates gathered on the 18th floor observation deck of the State Office Building in downtown Binghamton, which was within walking distance from the hotel. The view from the room was spectacular and the evening planned by Phyllis Hatala included the famous Spiedies. The sandwiches lived up to their hype and were An enthusiastic presentation was made by Ginny Ulbricht and the members of the Youngstown chapters for the 62nd UOL Convention to be held at Sts. Peter and Paul, Youngstown, Ohio on July 22-26, They also provided tasty Ohio treats for the entire Convention body. Sessions started winding down with the election of officers, those individuals challenged to fulfill the goals set at this UOL Convention. The Officers of the Senior UOL Executive Board : President- Oleh Bilynsky, Philadelphia, PA First VP- Daria Pishko Komichak, Maplewood, NJ Second VP-Emil Skocypec, South Bound Brook, NJ Recording Secretary- Aleksandra Hucul, Maplewood, NJ Corresponding Secretary- Shirley Skocypec, South Bound Brook, NJ Treasurer- Martha Misko, Northampton, PA Financial Secretary- Alexis Oryhon, Johnson City, NJ Auditor- Eric Senedak, Pittsburgh, PA His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine appointed Very Rev Myron Oryhon as Spiritual Advisor. Additionally, the Editor of the UOL BULLETIN will remain Natalie Bilynsky. Junior UOL Executive Board : President- Taylor Gladys, Pittsburgh, PA Vice President- Eric Perankovich, Youngstown, OH Recording Secretary- Elizabeth Hucul, Maplewood, NJ Corresponding Secretary- Arianna Rock, New Castle, PA Financial Secretary- Ethan Rock, New Castle, PA Treasurer- John Walewski, Carnegie, PA His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine appointed Rev Anthony Perkins as Spiritual Advisor to the Junior Board. Melanie Nakonachny was appointed as Advisor to the Juniors. (continued on page 5)

5 PAGE 5 SEPTEMBER 2008 Everyone moved on to the Youngstown Hospitality room that featured delicious foods from Ohio and the cheer O-H-I-O. The Youngstown Convention Committee had started fundraising for the through the night. As a special highlight of this year s Kolomeyka, someone had set up chairs at the front of the band and our Hierarchs had a wonderful view of the Friday s co-chairs Beth Harendza and Julieanne Marra planned an event that invoked the finest in Hot Air Ballooning. The room was decorated with balloons and featured a wonderful meatless buffet. All UOLers enjoyed the local band Old Friends that had e v e r y o n e dancing into the night. At the end of the evening the winners of the Balloon Launch silent auction were announced. His Grace Bishop Daniel and M i c h a e l Nakonachny had won the Saturday morning Hot Air Balloon ride. Unfortunately Bishop Daniel and Michael didn t get to go on the balloon ride, as the weather was not cooperative on S a t u r d a y morning. convention starting with a raffle for a huge basket of Ohio treats. The hospitality room was packed to capacity and full of wonderful friendships. Saturday morning started with morning prayers and featured two hour-long workshops. The first was led by Carol Petras-Wasylko, who presented techniques for Torte Making. Next His Eminence Archbishop Antony led a discussion about the Holodomor following the viewing of the film Harvest of Despair. Saturday was a free day with a variety of activities planned. Some visited the Spiedie Fest and Balloon launch. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate with the balloon launch and because of rain the hot air balloons did not fly that morning. Instead individuals went to visit the Carousels throughout Binghamton. Others went to Ithaca and site-seeing of the local falls. Saturday evening, chaired by Pani Matka Linda Oryhon, featured the Illuminations Banquet and Ball. Alexis Oryhon was the mistress of ceremonies and she guided the evening very gracefully. Awards were presented including Chapter of the Year to Parma, Ohio, as well as presentation of Scholarships and Junior Awards (the list of winners will be presented in the next issue of the UOL Bulletin, which is dedicated to the Junior UOL Convention). A highlight of the Convention Banquet was the presentation of the 9 past National UOL Presidents who attended the Convention Banquet. Additionally, the UOL presented Metropolitan John Scholarship Fund Grants totaling over $15,000 to St. Sophia s Seminary on behalf of our five full-time seminarians. Ivan Koshtyshyn spoke eloquently as he thanked the UOL for the scholarship and the warmth he has felt f r o m t h e UOL. Once the banquet was complete the Jeff Nyschot s Groove Band entertained and dancing continued dancing skills of our Juniors (and those who the next morning wished they were still Juniors). Sts. John church school students greeted Metropolitan Constantine, Archbishop Antony and Bishop Daniel at t h e r e c t o r y. Then, the National Senior and Junior U O L Presidents greeted the Hierarchs and presented each with flowers. P a r i s h representatives also greeted the Hierarchs with the traditional bread and salt. At the conclusion of the Hierarchal Divine Liturgy the officers of the National Executive Senior and Junior Boards took their oath of office. Following Divine Liturgy, everyone was invited to participate in Celebrate Ukraine at the parish hall. The Sunday lunch, organized by Bob Onysko, featured a short cultural program showcasing the choir and dancers of the parish. The Sunday l u n c h included St. J o h n s legendary Holubtsi and goodbyes. The Johnson City Chapter and Parish are to be commended for a fantastic Convention. Special thanks to Pam Scannell and Alexis Oryhon, Convention Chairpersons, and Spiritual Advisor Fr. Z e n o v i y Zharsky for all of their hard work. Their labor of love, in planning this convention, truly serves as an inspiration and a light that can illumine us all.

6 PAGE 6 SEPTEMBER 2008 CONSECRATION OF ST. THOMAS CHAPEL - ALL SAINTS CAMP JUNE 21-22, 2008 The UOL and the entire Ukrainian Orthodox Church rejoiced at the consecration of the St. Thomas Chapel at All Saints Camp. Faithful came from many chapters and parishes to witness the consecration of the chapel, an event that just recently seemed like an unattainable dream. In 2006 the UOL Convention Body committed to raising the funds to furnish the Chapel and Debra Burgan of Blessed memory volunteered to chair the committee. Her vision was realized on June 22, 2008 when the chapel was consecrated. After Debra fell asleep in the Lord Pani Matka Mary Anne Nakonachny stepped in with her team of Irene Carman and Diane Senedak. It is through their hard work that the fundraising for all of the icons and appointments happened so quickly. It is a true miracle that the fundraising and actual consecration occurred within two years of the Convention Body commitment. All Saints Day was a wonderful time to honor the benefactors of the Camp and Chapel and to celebrate the true purpose of the Chapel, Camp and UOL to Glorify our Lord. Fr. Proto-Deacon Ihor and Pani Matka Irene Mahlay served as organizers of the Consecration Celebration. On the sunny humid Saturday afternoon of June 21st faithful started arriving at All Saints Camp. Saturday afternoon included a chance to view the chapel prior to consecration. Faithful came to see the icons and appointments they had donated and to appreciate the beauty of the chapel and camp. As the altar had not yet been consecrated it was also a time when everyone (women and girls included) could enter the altar and witness the beautiful icon of the Resurrection. Pictures do not do justice to the beauty of the chapel, it is truly heavenly. All of the icons were written through the hand of Michael Kapeluck. On Saturday afternoon Michael along with Fr. Stephen Repa answered questions regarding the iconography of the chapel. Very Rev. John Nakonachny led Moleben for the benefactors of the camp and chapel. As church school camp started on Saturday all campers participated in all of the services during the weekend. These youngsters were witness to the beauty of our Orthodox faith. The Maplewood Junior and Senior chapters hosted a delicious pasta and meatball dinner for all participants. The Maplewood chapters are to be commended for their dedication. They traveled by bus across the state and prepared a fabulous dinner for over 300, and were the most gracious of hosts. The hospitality of the Maplewood chapter is a sign of how wonderful their Convention will be. Following the dinner Maestro Oleh Mahlay presented a brief workshop on Ukrainian Sacred Music. All faithful joined in a procession from the pavilion to the chapel. His Grace Bishop Daniel carried the relics of St. John Chrysostom. The relics were placed in front of the icon of Christ on the iconostasis. Following the procession Very Rev. John Haluszczak led Vesper services and a memorial service for all benefactors who had fallen asleep in the Lord. Following Vespers the choirs had brief rehearsals. Maestro Oleh Mahlay led the Bandurist Choir and Kira Haluszczak and Natalie Kapeluck Nixon led the Church School choir. Many remained to hear the angelic singing in preparation for Consecration and Divine Liturgy. Thunderstorms that evening cooled the hot humid camp and provided perfect cool clear weather for Sunday morning. Our Hierarchs, clergy, campers and visitors processed from the pavilion to the chapel. His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine, His Eminence Archbishop Antony and His Grace Bishop Daniel were greeted by: Emil Skocypec, All Saints Camp Committee Chairperson; Stephen Sheptak, Camp Director; Melissa Haluszczak, Church School Camp Director; and Fr. Paisius McGrath, Chapel Chaplain. The Consecration Service included consecration of the new altar and the installation of the Holy Relics of St. John Chrysostom. As part of this service the Hierarchs and faithful processed around the chapel. His Grace Bishop Daniel blessed the church with holy water, symbolic of baptism. Following the procession, at the front gates of the chapel Bishop Daniel rapped the doors of the chapel with his staff and Metropolitan Constantine proclaimed Open, open the gates, and let them remain open forever and the King of glory enter. At this very moving time of the service from within the chapel the choir chanted, Who is the King of glory? His Beatitude answered The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle, the Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. This statement was repeated three times, a sign of the cross was made before the Church doors and the doors were opened (similar to Pascha Matins). The holy relics were carried into the church by the Bishop, symbolizing Christ opening the heavens. As part of the consecration the relics are sealed into the altar table using beeswax, mastic, myrrh, aloe, incense, resin and labdanum. This sealing of the relics commemorates the fragrant spices used by Joseph of Arimathea at the tomb of Christ. The Altar Table was closed using four wooden corner pegs, as no metal nails or screws are used in the construction of the altar. The altar was then washed and anointed with wine and rose water. The altar was then chrismated with Holy Chrism. Following the Consecration Service the first Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the chapel. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy Metropolitan Constantine recalled his first time at the camp as a Bishop. He stated that at that time he spoke about the creation of earth and four angels present at the creation. The first angel asked scientifically, How? The second angel asked philosophically, Why? The third looked at the creation and greedily responded it will be mine. The fourth angel, an inspiration for us all, stated How beautiful, I will take care of it. So like those who were called to care for the camp at the blessing of the grounds, so those present and those not present are called to recognize the beauty of our Church and this Chapel and are called to care for it. He called on all to dedicate our lives to our Lord and to care for the beauty of our Church. His Beatitude also honored many present who had dedicated themselves to the camp and the chapel, including those who worked to build the chapel, and the UOL Committee to fundraise for icons and appointments: Pani Matka Mary Anne Nakonachny, Irene Carman, Diane Senedak and Debra Burgan of blessed memory. He also thanked the benefactors of the chapel, the sisters of Thomas Tychonia, Michael Dobronos - whose company donated the domes for the chapel, and Fr. Deacon Ihor and Pani Matka Irene Mahlay for organizing the consecration celebration. That afternoon was a true celebration with a feast of Ukrainian food donated by local parishes. Additionally the nearly 500 people who gathered to celebrate the consecration enjoyed a concert that featured the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus and Kyiv Ukrainian Dance Ensemble of Carnegie, Pennsylvania.

7 PAGE 7 SEPTEMBER 2008 Sts. Peter and Paul Sr. UOL Chapter Carnegie, PA New Year New Officers New Ideas by Steve Sivulich, Chapter Reporter NEW CHAPTER OFFICERS - Sts. Peter and Paul Sr. Chapter continues to run at a fast pace with a variety of projects being planned for the Fall. At its recent meeting, officers for were elected: President Steve Sivulich, Vice President Pat Sally, Treasurer Michael Kapeluck, Asst. Treasurer Michele Kapeluck, Secretary Pat Dorning, Jr. Chapter Adviser Sherri Walewski, Chapter Reporter Steve Sivulich, Auditors: Bonnie Reinhart and Steve Sawchuk. Fr. Steve Repa is our Spiritual Adviser. BAG LUNCHES FOR THE HOMELESS OF PITTSBURGH - Pat and Sarah Dorning organized and prepared fifty bag lunches for the Salvation Army Program that provides bag lunches for the homeless. St. Vladimir s Parish, South Side Pittsburgh, and St. Mary s Parish, McKees Rocks, PA also participate in this program. Although the bag lunches are generally just delivered to the Salvation Army location, on this occasion Pat and Sarah remained to assist with distributing the bag lunches. Both agreed that it was a very humbling experience to see how grateful the needy and homeless were to receive these lunches. 60 TH CONVENTION REBATE - Our convention rebate was used for very good causes. Donations were made to: All Saints Camp Chapel icon ($2,750); I.O.C.C. donation ($100) for California wildfire damages sustained by members of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, San Diego, CA; and All Saints Camp Chapel Consecration ($500). UOL CHAPTER and CHURCH PHOTO COPY MACHINE - While our very sophisticated color copy machine provides the ability to produce our Sunday Church Bulletin (in color), various publications for our church and chapter, as well as reproducing various materials for the 60 th UOL Convention, it comes with considerable cost. Thus, the annual rental expense of the machine is shared by the UOL Chapter ($1,200), Parish Board ($600), and Sts. Peter and Paul Kitchen Workers ($600). ALL SAINTS CAMP CHAPEL CONSECRATION - Our chapter members are excited about the completion of the camp chapel project and continue to be involved in the festivities scheduled for June 21-22, Cindy Haluszczak is coordinating requests for food for the Sunday lunch. Sts. Peter and Paul UOL members and the Kitchen Workers are donating 130 dozen pyrohi for the event. The Kitchen Worker ladies were excited about adding this event to their work schedule. OUR SUNSHINE COMMITTEE - Marlene and Paul Haluszczak have chaired this committee for years and years. They send: sympathy cards, Hierarch and clergy anniversary cards, get well wishes cards, and Christmas and Easter greetings to our Hierarchs. In addition to preparing these cards on a weekly basis, Paul and Marlene donate the cost of the cards and postage. CARNEGIE DAYS PROGRAM - The Annual Carnegie Days is scheduled for September 4-6, 12:00 noon to 12:00 midnight. The UOL Chapter coordinates this three-day event that requires the manning of a concession stand on the Carnegie Mall and providing food and beverages. This is a cooperative effort between the Sr. and Jr. UOL Chapters and Church Kitchen Workers. The menu will include pyrohi, halupsie, kielbasa sandwiches, haluskie, and other foods. Members of the parish also assist with this major fund raiser project. Major coordinators include: Michael Kapeluck staffing of the booth; Sherri Walewski managing the booth and coordinating food supplies; and Steve Sivulich managing the kitchen. 61 st UOL CONVENTION JOHNSON CITY, NEW YORK - We re looking forward to the Johnson City Convention and will be sending three delegates: Cindy Haluszczak, Alice Sivulich and Steve Sivulich. A number of chapter members plan to attend certain convention activities. GOOD LUCK JOHNSON CITY! Graduates Honored by Parma Cathedral and UOL Chapter High school graduates of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, Parma, Ohio, were honored by the parish on Sunday, June 8, Following the Divine Liturgy, each graduate received an Orthodox Study Bible as a gift from the parish s Senior U.O.L. chapter. Graduating altar servers received plaques from the parish recognizing their service as altar boys. Pictured from left to right: Rev. John Nakonachny, pastor, Kevin Kustich, Ryan Sima, Emily Kominko, John Harasyn, Daniel Moysaenko and Fr. Deacon Ihor Mahlay. THIRD ANNUAL SUMMER CHURCH SCHOOL CAMP Sts. Peter and Paul, Palos Park, Illinois The 3rd Annual Summer Church School Camp, under the direction of Janet Milton, was held on June 17, 18 and 19. The success of the encampment, as measured in the reaction of the campers, was one of our best. Our campers ranged in age from 3 to 14. On Tuesday we began our day with a Moleben in church. This was followed by a lesson and take home projects about Pentecost. Our older students met with Father Taras for a discussion about Pentecost and other topics. We followed this with a Veggie Tale video entitled God Made You Special. After lunch we all loaded into cars to Pump It Up for a fun filled afternoon. On Wednesday, we began the day with an opening prayer followed by a lesson on prosfora by Father Taras and then the fun of each student making his/her own prosfora. Many students who had attended the 2 previous encampments commented that this prosfora was the best yet. Students then had an opportunity to complete a craft of choice. Following this, John Charest took our students outdoors for lots of fun playing games. After an early lunch we boarded a bus along with other members of our Church family for a trip to St. George s Antiochian Orthodox Church in Cicero. To say this was the highlight of our encampment would be an understatement. Father Nicholas presentation about the Weeping Icon, or as it is now known, Our Lady of Cicero, was so very enlightening and informative that several of our students were actually taking notes. He answered all of our questions and let all of us light candles, and presented every person with two icons of the Lady of Cicero. We then processed to the icon as Father Taras led prayers to the Holy Mother. On Thursday, our encampment began once again with opening prayers followed by our mission Project. With the help of Mary Jo Grzymski we created cards for all of our shut-ins and for the young patients at Hope Children s Hospital. The cards that our students made are absolutely beautiful and heart warming. Their creativity was beyond words. We ended our encampment with a picnic lunch at a local forest preserve followed by a trip to the Little Red School House, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all of our campers. PM Laura created a scavenger hunt for each of our campers, which they enjoyed completing as we visited the School House and hiked the trail. We returned to the Church to end our camp with ice cream and popcorn and our favorite, a water balloon toss. At the end of our day, we asked our students to evaluate the 3 days, and all the comments were extremely positive. Dominic Saunders summed it up well when asked what was your favorite part of camp, and he just said, Everything! Thanks to the UOL who funded this encampment once again, and on behalf of all our children, we can t begin to tell you how much your support has meant. Carnegie Junior Receives Award On Sunday, May 18, 2008 Anastasia Markiw received the Girl Scout Gold Award, completing her Girl Scouting journey from Daisy to Senior Scout. The Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout may earn. The leadership skills, organizational skills, and community commitment needed to complete the Gold Award often sets the foundation for a lifetime of active citizenship. Last year only 5% of the eligible registered Girl Scouts completed the requirements of the Girl Scout Gold Award. The last step in earning the Gold Award is doing a project of at least 50 hours that meets a need in the community. Anastasia s Gold Award Project was entitled, Birthday Bonanza and it was a birthday celebration in a bag for the 44 children of families that utilize the Bridgeville Area Food Bank. Anastasia had to contact various local businesses for donations of gift certificates, and items such as bags, cards and wrapping paper. She then made birthday cards and CDs with the Happy Birthday song for each recipient. She says that her hope was that each child would realize the dream of having a birthday celebration without it being a financial burden to the family. The bags were delivered to the food bank and are given out to the families the month of their child s birthday. Anastasia will be attending Chatham University (where she earned the Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship) in Pittsburgh starting this fall as an Interior Architecture student. She enjoyed being in the Girl Scouting Program and has many fond memories of time spent in Troop 100. Her mom, Connie Markiw, was her leader for the past 12 years, and is proud to say that there were two other scouts from their troop who also earned their Gold Award. Congratulations Anastasia for a job well done!

8 PAGE 8 SEPTEMBER 2008 / / / / / / / / / / / / UOL Holy Ascension Chapter - Clifton, New Jersey invites you to the 8th Annual Celebration in Support of the UOC Orphanages in Ukraine COMING TO AMERICA to be held Saturday, October 11, 2008 Starting at 7 pm Grand Chalet 1377 Route 23 South Wayne, New Jersey Includes 5 course dinner and dancing to Anthony St. James Orchestra Adult $65 Student $35 Children $20 Contact Marion Jendras MAJ0722@aol.com Gentlemen: Jacket and tie requested unless appropriate ethnic attire / / / / / / / / / / / / U O L T R I B U T E S A donation to the Tribute Fund is an acknowledgment of a Milestone, Memorial, or Accomplishment, or is a Special Recognition of an individual or group. Your much-appreciated contribution is used to support and further the Mission of the Ukrainian Orthodox League. All donations are published in the UOL Bulletin. The UOL sincerely thanks the following for their recent contribution: CONTRIBUTOR Oleh and Natalie Bilynsky Vera Muzychka Anonymous Kay and George Shaffer Tony and Vera Sufler OCCASION In honor of Pam Scannell and Alexis Oryhon. Thank you for a great Convention! In Memory Of Olga Oryhon who recently fell asleep in the Lord. Memory Eternal! Thank you! In honor of Eugenia Arson s 80th Birthday. Mnohaya Lita and many, many more!! In honor of the Johnson City Chapter! Thank you for a wonderful Convention! Interested in honoring a special person or remembering a special event? Use the UOL Tribute Fund to commemorate special events. UOL Tributes should be submitted to: Natalie Bilynsky 703 Pine Ridge Road Wallingford, PA please make check payable to Ukrainian Orthodox League Young Adult Memorial Day weekend (continued from page 3) Monday featured the last set of morning prayers, a farewell breakfast and cleaning of the Camp facilities. Goodbyes were shared, plans for future events hatched and the Memorial Day Retreat was indeed completed. We would be remiss if we didn t thank His Beatitude Metropolitan Constantine, Very Reverend Father John Nakonachny, Father Deacon Dennis Lapushansky, Melanie and Michael Nakonachny, Steven Sheptak, Chris Burgan, Cindy and Josh Haluszczak, and Jerry Burgan for all their respective efforts to make this weekend a rousing success. If at all possible, please make every effort to attend upcoming Young Adult events. It is never too early to mark your calendars for next year s U.O.L. Memorial Day Weekend Young Adult Retreat. UOL Bulletin Non Profi Org c/o Natalie Bilynsky U.S. Postage 703 Pine Ridge Road PAID Wallingford, PA Encourage UOL Membership - Share your UOL Bulletin with a Friend! S. Bound Brook, NJ Permit No 96 If you would like your Malanka listed in the UOL Bulletin please send information regarding your Malanka to Natalie Bilynsky by October 1, All Malanka information will be listed in the November issue of the UOL Bulletin. THE UOL BROCHURE IS AVAILABLE!! If you would like to have copies of the UOL Brochure for your membership drive contact Natalie Bilynsky to get copies. UOL Membership dues are due September 30, Be sure to submit your dues to Alexis Oryhon by the deadline. $20. for Senior UOL. Junior Dues are $5. and should be submitted to Ethan Rock.